Pakistan’s Polio Tally Rises to Eight in 2025 After New Case in Bannu

Pakistan has reported its eighth case of polio for the year 2025, following the confirmation of a new case in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This marks the third polio case reported from the province this year, underscoring ongoing challenges in the fight against the disease.​

New Case in Bannu

The National Institute of Health (NIH) confirmed the latest polio case in Bannu, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This case is the third from the province in 2025, contributing to the national total of eight cases reported so far this year. The NIH’s confirmation came amid ongoing nationwide vaccination campaigns aimed at eradicating the disease.​

National Polio Situation

Prior to this case, Pakistan had reported seven polio cases in 2025. The first case was detected in Dera Ismail Khan, followed by additional cases in various regions, including Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These reports highlight the persistent presence of the poliovirus in certain areas, despite extensive vaccination efforts.​

Vaccination Campaigns and Challenges

In response to the rising number of cases, the Pakistan Polio Programme has been conducting multiple mass vaccination campaigns throughout the year. The first nationwide campaign of 2025 took place from February 3 to 9, during which over 45 million children were vaccinated across the country. Despite these efforts, challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, logistical issues, and security concerns in certain regions continue to hinder the complete eradication of polio.​

Government’s Commitment

The government of Pakistan remains committed to eradicating polio. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the importance of the polio eradication program, declaring it a national priority. The government continues to collaborate with international organizations and local stakeholders to strengthen vaccination campaigns and address the underlying issues contributing to the persistence of the disease.​

Conclusion

The confirmation of a new polio case in Bannu serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in the fight against polio in Pakistan. While significant progress has been made, the recent cases highlight the need for continued vigilance and sustained efforts to ensure that every child is vaccinated and protected from this debilitating disease. The government’s commitment, combined with community engagement and international support, remains crucial in achieving the goal of a polio-free Pakistan.